The ICDSC Core Standard 

The international standard for assessing and structuring sustainable digital practices within organisations 

The ICDSC Core Standard defines a common framework for assessing organisations’ maturity in the area of sustainable digital practices. 

It offers a structured methodology for identifying the impacts of digital technology, assessing existing practices and setting organisations on a path of measurable progress.
Designed to align with international standards and European sustainability requirements (CSRD), it serves as a shared reference point for experts and certification bodies. 

What the ICDSC standard offers you 

  • A common assessment standard

    A shared analysis grid for consistently evaluating organisations’ digital practices.

  • A harmonised method

    A clear methodology for structuring the process and identifying areas for improvement.

  • Integration with the CSRD (ESRS)

    A framework designed to align with European sustainability reporting requirements.

  • A systemic view of sustainable digital practices

    A holistic approach that links digital challenges to environmental, social and governance dimensions.

Key topics covered 

The standard covers the full range of issues relating to sustainable digital technology. It is based on existing international standards and adopts a holistic approach: digital technology is not treated as an isolated issue, but is integrated into organisations’ sustainability strategies. 

  • Governance and strategy

    Integrate sustainable digital technology into the organisation’s strategy and governance decisions.

  • Design and development of digital services

    Design digital services that are more resource-efficient, high-performing and sustainable from the outset.

  • Infrastructure and equipment

    Manage the environmental impact of digital infrastructure, equipment and resources.

Standard coming soon 

A progressive and evolving approach 



The IDSR Standard is based on a progressive and measurable approach. It enables organisations to assess their level of maturity and move step by step towards more sustainable digital practices. Three levels of maturity guide this progression. 

This first level enables organisations to launch the process and structure their initial actions. 

  • Commitment of resources and achievement of initial results 
  • Remote or face-to-face assessment, focusing primarily on resources 

This level corresponds to a more advanced approach with measurable results. 

  • Commitment to significant resources and outcomes 
  • On-site assessment focused primarily on a trajectory of progress (reducing impacts year on year) 

This level corresponds to a mature approach that fully integrates the challenges of sustainable digitalisation. 

  • Strong commitment to outcomes, taking planetary boundaries into account (the organisation must set itself on a trajectory to respect these boundaries) 
  • Face-to-face assessment 

A label overseen by an independent governing body 

The ICDSC develops and ensures compliance with the IDSR standard, but does not directly award labels. 

Labels are created by independent labelling bodies, which must strictly apply the standard’s requirements: specifications, assessment method and audit process. 

This model ensures the consistency of the framework whilst allowing different stakeholders to offer their own labels. 

This model enables: 

  • A diversity of stakeholders 
  • Methodological innovation 
  • Adaptation to different international contexts 
  • Healthy competition on a common basis 
Find out more about the association 
Find out more about the certification bodies